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London Events, London Adventure, Blog, London Entertainment

How To Experience London Marathon 2024 Guide: Date, Time & Place

How-To-Experience-London-Marathon-2024-Guide

Where on earth did you hide your running shoes? The time has come to bring them out again!

In the heart of the great city, the London Marathon is one of the many annual events people are dying to attend. 

It’s one of the world’s most popular marathons, so naturally, it attracts thousands of runners from around the globe.

If you’re lucky, you just might catch yourself running alongside legends like Usain Bolt! Well, it’s not likely, but one can hope, right?

Are you planning to experience or participate in one of the greatest Marathon races ever organized? We’ve got all the insider tips, from where to watch to budget-friendly accommodations in Central London. So, let’s dive in and make the most of this epic day!

What Is the London Marathon?

The London Marathon isn’t just a race; it’s a celebration of the human spirit, endurance, and community. Every year, tens of thousands of runners from around the world converge on the streets of London to tackle the 26.2-mile course, cheered on by millions of spectators. It’s a chance to witness incredible athleticism, but more importantly, it’s an opportunity to be part of something truly special.

On top of being a revered sporting event, the London Marathon is also a major fundraising opportunity for charities. Many participants choose to run for charity, raising money for causes close to their hearts.

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When is the 2024 London Marathon?

Mark your calendars for Sunday, April 21, 2024, because that’s when the magic unfolds. Whether you’re a seasoned marathon veteran or a first-time spectator, this is your chance to be a part of something truly special. Can’t make it to the sidelines? No problem! Catch all the action live on BBC1 and BBC2, starting bright and early at 8:30 am. And for those lucky enough to be in London, head to Blackheath to soak in the atmosphere firsthand, with the big screen ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the action.

Where is the London Marathon?

The marathon route winds its way through the heart of London, offering participants and spectators a glimpse of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Starting south of the Thames at Blackheath, runners pass through Greenwich before crossing the river over Tower Bridge. The course then meanders through Central London, culminating in a triumphant finish in front of Buckingham Palace. It’s a scenic journey that showcases the best of what London has to offer.

A little History fact about the Marathon is that it dates back to 1981 when the First race was inaugurated. Over the years, it has become a symbol of London’s spirit and resilience, attracting runners of all abilities to take on the challenge.

How to participate?

Are you looking to participate in the next coming Marathon, either as a local or a visitor? Note that Registration opens several months before the event. Entry is highly competitive, so participants often need to enter through a ballot system due to high demand. 

The ballot entry fee typically ranges from £28 to £39 (GBP) for UK residents and slightly higher for international entrants. Luckily, there are also charity entries available, allowing participants to run for a chosen charity and raise funds.

If you need more information about participation and registration, It’s essential to check the official London Marathon website or contact the event organizers directly for the most up-to-date information on registration fees and entry requirements.

Where to stay in London?

After a day of cheering on the runners, you’ll want a comfortable place to rest your feet. Luckily, there are plenty of affordable hotels that offer cozy accommodations without breaking the bank. One standout option is the Mowbray Court Hotel in London.

Located in the best parts of London, the Hotel is best suited to meet every of your needs and tastes. With friendly staff and exquisite cuisine, this Hotel is your best bet. The price is also very affordable so you don’t have to break your bank.

Conclusion:

So get those running shoes ready because London is calling! You do not want to miss this year’s Marathon. It promises to be a fun-filled experience for both participants and spectators. With our guide, you’re ready to dive into the excitement of the London Marathon 2024 and create memories that will last a lifetime.

London Events, London Hotels, London Adventure, London Attraction, Blog, Event Venue

How to Experience the Thrill of the 2024 Boat Race: Oxford vs Cambridge Edition!

How to Experience the Thrill of the 2024 Boat Race-Mowbray Court Hotel South Kensington

Join the ultimate boat racing event this year at the River Thames. The competition between Oxford and Cambridge boat clubs has lasted for decades and this year 2024 won’t be an exception. 

And when it comes to accommodation, consider staying at one of the affordable 3-star hotels near Earls Court London for a convenient and comfortable stay in London.

About Boat Race

The boat race is an age-long competition between two of the oldest universities in British history; the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford.  Crews from the boat clubs of these two universities come together every year to battle in an amateur and fulfilled competition. With over 185 years of boat racing against each other, the competition is now a shared culture between these universities.  Who will win this year? No one knows yet but you can always place your bet on your favorite.

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When is The Boat Race? What time does the race start?

After years of practicing the boat race culture, the year 2024 is set to be another memorable year with the scheduled boat race coming up. This year, the much-anticipated boat race competition is set to happen on 30th March 2024.  The men’s race is slated for 3:46 pm in the afternoon and the women’s is set to happen earlier at 2:46 pm in the afternoon. 

About Tickets

Enjoy the boat race in the comfort of your home by watching it on television. Also, you can simply watch from the banks of the River Thames for free!  And if you’d like to make your time more memorable, you can buy a hospitality ticket which gives you access to the VIP section. 

What colors are Oxford and Cambridge?

During the boat race, Cambridge racers use the green paddle while Oxford racers use the blue paddle. This allows anyone to distinguish these racers easily. 

Who won last year?

Last year came with a bang as Cambridge went on a full sweep, winning both the men’s and women’s boat races.  The men finished in 18:18 minutes putting a space of 1 ½ lengths between them and the Oxford racers. In the women’s section, the gap was wider as Oxford women clinched the win without a doubt with a gap of  4 ½  lengths. Also,  they finished the  race in 29.39 minutes 

What’s it all about?

Boat racing is a competition between two long-standing boat clubs. This year, the Cambridge University Boat Club and the Oxford University Boat Club will compete against each other in what promises to be the best entertaining event for the year. 

Where to stay in London?

The boat race this year is not one to miss as there are several memories to be made. Fortunately, most visitors can stay at the Mowbray Court Hotel in South Kensington which is budget-friendly and just 36 minutes away from the River Thames.  There is a continental buffet breakfast every morning and each room is fitted with an air conditioner, free Wi-Fi, and a private bathroom. And if there’s anything you need to make your stay better, the 24-hour front desk is always at your service 

Final Thought

Create memories at the Boat Race 2024 as the age-long universities battle it out in this pro-amateur competition. Book a room at the Mowbray Court Hotel and have a comfortable stay throughout the competition. 

London Events, London Adventure, Blog, Event Venue, London Entertainment

Notting Hill Carnival returns to the streets of London!

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The vibrant streets of Notting Hill are once again ready to come alive with the colors, sounds, and energy of one of London’s most anticipated events. After months of planning, the famous Notting Hill Carnival is set to make its grand return, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate Caribbean culture.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned carnival-goer, this event promises a lively mix of parades, music, and delicious street food. And for those planning to stay nearby, there are plenty of budget-friendly hotels in Kensington, just a short distance away, offering comfort without breaking the bank.

When is Notting Hill Carnival in London?

Slide your dancing shoes on and get ready to move with this year’s Notting Hill Carnival set to kick off on Sunday, August 25th to Monday, August 26th 

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The carnival, which is considered the largest street festival in Europe, aims to celebrate diversity within the city of London, as the city flaunts its population’s link to Caribbean heritage. Notting Hill attracts almost one million people on a year by year basis, luring them in with the aromas of Caribbean street food, music, and an infinity of activities lined up for all ages to enjoy.

Music includes traditional reggae, meringue, calypso, rumba, and zouk music, coupled with floats, carnival activities as well as eateries and pop-up flea markets.

This annual celebration is held in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Close to one million people attend this extravaganza of Caribbean culture and in 2006, the United Kingdom voted to add the Notting Hill Carnival to the famous list of icons of England.

For the first whole day, carnival goers will enjoy a Panorama as well as a steel band music competition complete with street food and dancing.

the Caribbean was the contention of many European countries who each wanted ownership of a part of this gorgeous region. The English acquired St. Kiss, Barbados, Antigua, and other islands in the 17th century. It’s common for many people of the Caribbean islands to reside in England.

Sunday, August 25th will start early, at 6:00 am, with a traditional carnival opening performed in the Caribbean Islands called J’Ouvert. This event’s main attraction is a parade comprised of revelers donned with mugs and brightly colored paints. A Children’s Parade will stroll through the streets during the day and at night as children dance and perform in ornate costumes, swirling the brilliant-colored clothing.

Sunday is the best day for families with young children to mingle with smaller crowds of people and plenty of kid-inspired floats in the parade. All day and into the night Sunday you can catch live music on stages and sample incredible foods from vendors while listening to all kinds of Caribbean-inspired music.

The Grand Finale will be on Monday, August 26th with a mélange of dancing, street performances, steel drum music groups, and the Notting Hill Grand Finale Parade.

To fully enjoy this carnival, we recommend that you wear comfortable choose to easily walk around the festive streets during the celebrations. 

Notting Hill Carnival is free! You don’t have to buy tickets or pay to get in. Enjoy all this world-renowned and famous street carnival has to offer!

Where to stay in London?

If you’re planning to attend the Notting Hill Carnival, staying nearby can make your experience more convenient. Consider staying at the Mowbray Court Hotel in Kensington. It’s a comfortable option located not too far from the carnival area. The hotel provides easy access to public transport, making it simple to reach the festivities. after a day filled with music and dance, you can relax in a cozy setting, ready for more adventures in London.

Don’t miss the excitement of the Notting Hill Carnival-it’s a unique event that brings the streets of London to life!

 

Blog, London Entertainment

Enjoy spectacular birthday party celebrations at Smithfield

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birthday party celebrations at Smithfield

One of the most historic corners of the City of London is holding a birthday party this August Bank Holiday – and everyone is invited! It’s the time you should go to Smithfield to enjoy spectacular party celebrations complete with parades, birthday cake, and roller disco.

For centuries Smithfield has been an indispensable part of London life.  Farmers brought their cows, sheep, geese, and other animals for sale here, and later it became the center of general meat trading. As London became more and more congested, it was difficult to maintain an open space for the fair.

The Victorians decided to build a grand covered market complete with dragons on the roof! While being a resident at Mowbray Court Hotel Kensington head towards this building that is now celebrating its 150th birthday, and the City of London is doing it in style.

There is something for everyone, from children to adults.  Street games, parades, giant puppets, fairground rides, birthday cake, cooking demonstrations, pop-up markets, music, and dance. There is also a roller disco for anyone prepared to put on their skates and dance.  

Smithfield

The Bartholomew’s Carnival of Delights is guaranteed to amaze and amuse, likewise the dramatic Kinetica Bloco procession.  Sit back and enjoy the most exciting musical talent and food sourced from around the city.

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Discover the beauty of Henna Art at the Henna House where all kinds of designs including intricate florals and bold tribal art can be seen while searching for accommodation in Kensington London for best stay with friends and family.

There are choirs, funky brass bands, Electropop, cowbells, multicultural bands, and even a spectacular sheep procession!  If comedy is your preference, seek out the comedy club where a range of comedians will be entertaining crowds.

Find out about the characters who made history here at Smithfield.  Horrible Histories takes a lively look at their stories, while the Kino Van offers an opportunity to watch archive films about women suffragettes in the area fighting for the right to vote in elections.

Want to find out more about Smithfield’s history? Then join one of the many guided tours that take place around this area.  City Guides offer an opportunity to discover Smithfield at work but you do need to get up early! These tours start at 7 am in the morning, as the daily trading actually starts around 3 am every day finishing at 10 am.  

Alternatively, join one of the tours led by the Museum of London and for that, you need to check out budget hotel rooms in London to book your stay and visit various other attractions in the city. These guided walks focus on the history of the area and include a look at Bartholomew Fair, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, and the role of Smithfield as a place of execution, including death by fire.

London Events, London Adventure, London Attraction, Blog

A Complete Guide to Celebrate Christmas in London

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Christmas in London

Spending Christmas in London?  Then you can look forward to a lot of festive fun and entertainment. 

All the main shopping areas such as Regent Street, Oxford Street, Kensington, The Strand, and Covent Garden are always beautifully decorated with festive lights.  A massive Christmas tree adorned with long strings of twinkling lights is placed in Trafalgar Square. This tree is a gift from Norway. It is sent every year in recognition of the help and support given to Norway during the Second World War.  Alternatively, you can go for accommodation near Earls Court London and have a great time exploring more.

Head for South Bank, Hyde Park, Leicester Square, Portobello Road or Greenwich for some really wonderful Christmas markets.  Each market contains numerous chalets selling beautiful decorations, gifts, food and drinks.  Entertainment is often provided too in the form of bands, music, and street performers.  At Hyde Park for example there is also a fairground and a Giant Observation Wheel revolving 200 feet into the air providing stunning views across London. 

Ice skating is another fun activity over the Christmas period.  Numerous outdoor rinks are set up throughout London.  Some of the most spectacular are sited outside the Natural History Museum, in the courtyard of Somerset House, and in the moat of the Tower of London.  Hyde Park’s Christmas market includes access to the largest outdoor ice rink in the UK which is situated around the Victorian bandstand. 

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Public sessions are held at all the rinks often late into the night, and skates can be hired. If you are near to hotels in London Earls Court, you should visit the Victorian bandstand  Some of the ice rinks also incorporate special sessions by professional skaters where you can watch performances.  At Hyde Park, for example, there are regular shows of Cinderella on Ice performed by championship skaters.

More entertainment can be enjoyed in the West End theatres where special festive productions of favorite ballets like The Nutcracker and Sleeping Beauty are staged. The Nutcracker is very much a feature of a British Christmas, with its tale of a Christmas party, a fight between the Nutcracker and the evil Mouse King followed by a journey to the Kingdom of Sweets. 

Also essential to any British Christmas are performances of A Christmas Carol, Dickens ever-popular story showing how Scrooge learned the real meaning of Christmas from the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future.

Christmas in England would not be Christmas without the pantomime.  These are comic versions of traditional fairy stories. This year Dick Whittington is being staged at the London Palladium.

Dick Whittington is very much a London story about a boy and his cat who come to London to make their fortune, initially deterred and start to go home before being told by the bells to ‘turn again’, and after various adventures marry the girl he loves and become the Lord Mayor of London.

Expect calls from the audience of ‘he’s behind you’ whenever the bad guy comes on stage, and a pantomime dame wearing the most extravagant, over-the-top, dresses. Oh – and the dame is usually a man dressed as a woman. In addition, choosing the Mowbray Court Hotel in Kensington London will multiply your enjoyment.

As the festive season comes to an end, head to Trafalgar Square for New Year Celebrations which include fireworks displays along the Thames.

London Adventure, London Attraction, Blog

Things To Do in Regent’s Park

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Regent's Park

Regents Park, one of London’s royal parks, is a treasure trove of activities and attractions that promise a delightful day out for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking to unwind, Regent’s Park has something for you. And for those traveling on a budget, there are many affordable hotels in Kensington, just a short tube ride away, making it easy to enjoy the park without breaking the bank.

Yearning for green spaces, lots to do, and no city streets? Then head for Regents Park.

Located in North London, not too far from Euston Station, Regents Park is one of London’s Royal Parks.  It was designed by John Nash for the Prince Regent (who later became King George IV) but it wasn’t until 1835 that the public was allowed in.  Over the years it has become a much-loved park, where Londoners enjoy walking and relaxing.

It is also the home of one of London’s most popular attractions – London Zoo.  Opened in 1828, it is the world’s oldest scientific zoo and is now home to countless penguins, lions, tigers, and many other animals.  London Zoo was the setting for one of the most iconic scenes in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.  It was in the Zoo’s reptile house that Harry Potter discovered that he could talk to snakes – and accidentally released a boa constrictor from its cage leaving Dudley inside!

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Harry Potter is not the only film to feature Regents Park.  If you have seen Mary Poppins, 101 Dalmations, Bridget Jones, or An American Werewolf in London to name but a few of the films– then you will find many familiar locations.

So what else can you do in Regent’s Park?  There is a lovely boating lake where you can join the ducks on the water by hiring boats or pedalos.  There are all kinds of sports to be enjoyed or watched in London’s largest outdoor sports area.  

There are acres of lawns and gardens where you can stroll, relax, and watch the world go by while residing at Budget Hotels in Central London.  Queen Mary’s Garden is one of the most beautiful in the city. It is also one of the most fragrant housings over 12,000 scented roses, plus thousands of other plants and shrubs.  This is a garden to delight all your senses.  

Feel like a longer stroll, then cross the road and head up Primrose Hill for one of the most stunning views across the city.  The summit of Primrose Hill is almost 63 meters above sea level and is carefully maintained so that there are uninterrupted views all around.  

Perhaps you prefer to watch a play or a film? Regents Park Open Air Theatre is the oldest permanent outdoor theatre in the country. This pretty amphitheater can be found within the Inner Circle of the Park and has a wide range of film, music, comedy, and drama performances throughout the summer. It is a fantastic way to relax on a warm summer evening. 

Escape the ordinary and dive into the heart of London’s charm at Regent’s Park! Unwind amidst nature’s embrace, just a moment away from the bustling city life. Consider, Mowbray Court Hotel in London for an authentic experience without breaking the bank. 

London Adventure, London Attraction, Blog

THE WORLD OF HARRY POTTER

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The World of Harry Potter

Harry Potter, the boy wizard has become an international phenomenon with London taking a key role in his adventures which is why countless fans follow in his footsteps every day.

Many of the scenes around the center of London are all too familiar to Harry Potter fans.  The Knight Bus sped across London’s bridges and through the West End; the little shops of Leadenhall Market provided the inspiration for the Leaky Cauldron and Diagon Alley while the flying car set off from St Pancras Station and every year, Harry Potter set off for Hogwarts via the Hogwarts Express steaming at Platform Nine and three quarters at Kings Cross Station.  

Now, let’s talk about accommodation. London, notorious for its pricey lodgings, might seem daunting to the budget-conscious traveler. But fear not, for hidden amidst the hustle and bustle of the city lies a plethora of affordable accommodations in London, waiting to welcome you with open arms.

Warner Bros Studio Tour, where all the films were made.  This is the setting for an incredible Harry Potter adventure behind the scenes, where visitors can find out the secrets of a green screen, and see the wonderful sets and props that brought the films vividly alive.  

The original Hogwarts Express stands puffing on the platform, waiting for passengers.  Stroll down the Great Hall of Hogwarts, take a look under the staircase of No 4 Privet Drive, follow the gold to Gringotts Bank, and admire the wands in Ollivanders.  Who can resist the fun of Weasley’s Joke shop in Diagon Alley?  Peep inside the Knight Bus and drink some butterbeer.  

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The Forbidden Forest awaits you – and if you don’t like spiders then it may be something of a nightmare.  This is where the giant animated model of Aragog has her lair together with all the spiderlings.  

Admire the delights of Mrs Weasley’s kitchen complete with self-stirring cauldrons or imagine yourself sitting in Professor Snape’s gloomy potions classroom.  Other famous sets include Professor Dumbledore’s study, the Gryffindor Common Room, and the turret dormitory shared by Harry, Ron, and their friends.  

Everywhere you go within the Studio Tour are hundreds upon hundreds of original props made for use during the filming. There are wands, time turners, chests, armor, games, paintings, books, and over 200 monster heads.  One of the highlights of the tour is undoubtedly watching the metal snakes slithering over the great door to the Chamber of Secrets – and seeing it slowly open!

The incredibly detailed model of Hogwarts arouses admiration from every visitor.  Every single detail can be seen, nothing has been left out.  Green screen technology enabled this model to be used for filming many of the exterior scenes showing Hogwarts in all its glory.  It never fails to impress.  

You can even get yourself filmed on a broomstick, flying across the sky! Harry Potter’s magical universe is definitely alive and thoroughly enjoyable.

After a day of exploring the wizarding world, why not retreat to the comfort of the Mowbray Court Hotel in Central London? Located in the heart of the city, this cozy hotel offers the perfect home base for your magical adventures. with comfortable accommodations and easy access to all of London’s attractions, it’s the ideal place to rest your weary feet after a day of spellbinding fun.